Upcoming Events: Summer Camp | Letting Kids Be Kids — Matt Ernster

"I came that they may have life and have it abundantly." John 10:10

It's hard to imagine summer without camp! The Firmly Planted Family summer camps will take place on July 22-25 and August 5-9, and they will be bustling with over 150 campers. We offer 22 different camps, so there's something for everyone. Kids, parents, and volunteers should expect endless giggles, various crafts, rosy cheeks, and the fun energy that comes with playing, dancing, and wrestling (check out the pictures below!), all while learning and growing closer to Jesus as children participating ignite their faith. Summer camp was a life-changing experience for me. At a summer camp when I was ten years old, I decided to follow Jesus. The lessons I learned and the friendships I made continue to impact my life, showing the profound impact of camps.

Being childlike is essential, especially in a society that often celebrates childish behavior. One is life-giving, and the latter is life-draining. These camps allow kids to be kids, with experienced and dedicated individuals supporting them to encourage them to embrace being childlike while pursuing Jesus. Although I'm no longer a 10-year-old camper, I know that the other summer camp leaders and I will bring energy and enthusiasm, eagerly looking forward to the chance to be childlike.

If you’re a local parent near Vancouver, WA and haven't signed your kids up for camp yet, why wait? Look at the camp listings and find the right one for your child. If you feel compelled to support a camper through financial sponsorship, know that your contribution will make a difference. Your support will not only impact the life of the camper attending but will also influence generations to come. I'm proof of this as the Lord has blessed me with four exceptional children and a beautiful Proverbs 31 wife. I would have missed out on all this if I hadn't accepted the Lord's grace. Instead, I'm living abundantly because of Him and for Him.

Matt Ernster
Campus Chaplain + Wrestling Coach